Russia’s two strategic submarines to join navy late this year: Military

Russia says two of its latest strategic submarines will join the Russian Navy by the end of this year.

Footage released by the Russian Ministry of Defense on Tuesday showed the two submarines, named Knyaz Vladimir and Kazan, as they were floating in icy water in an undisclosed location.

According to a statement by the ministry, the two advanced submarines would determine the future direction of Russia’s submarine fleet and boost the country's defense capabilities, as well as enhancing the country’s position in the world’s oceans.

Knyaz Vladimir is equipped with ballistic missiles and is the lead submarine among the fifth-generation Borei II-class, while Kazan Yasen-class submarine can reportedly sink up to 520 meters, remains submerged for as long as 100 days and reaches speeds of up to 31 knots.

The statement further said seven warships, including three nuclear and one diesel-electric submarine, would be built by the end of 2019.